It is sad how fast this year has gone.. it seems only yesterday I walked my big 4 yr old boy into his first day of Kindergarten, whilst carrying my 3 month old baby boy on my hip! Now my big boy is getting ready to move into Yr 1 and my baby boy is already 1 and almost walking!! - It has been such a busy, rewarding year with my 3 children and we are now getting ready for a well earned break with Christmas now only 4 weeks away!!

We will hear many times in the coming 4 weeks that Christmas is a time of giving, but most of us agree that the message has been hijacked by runaway commercialism.I’m sure we also agree that giving can be good, and that there’s a lot to be said for the Christmas spirit…peace on earth and goodwill to all men is a wonderful dream, after all. But when it comes to giving, the question arises, “What can we give that isn’t just more “stuff’?”

When I ask myself what I most enjoy giving at Christmas, the answer is, “The nice me’ The one who is relaxed and pleasant to be around and shares Christmas cheer.So how can we work on being the best we can be this holiday season? And in doing so, how can we also model the true meaning of Christmas to our children?

One of the new “traditions” that have developed in the past decade or so is that we frantically strive to get everything done by Christmas Eve, so that we can relax for the Christmas-New Year break.And we find that it can be SO stressful getting everything done, especially when you are dragging around weary children - that by the big day we’re totally exhausted. How great would it be to have everything possible done, all things ship shape, - with a bit of space and energy left over so we can be in good spirits for the holidays?

Here’s how:

Let’s start with the knowledge that we feel the best- the most relaxed about ourselves when our lives are in balance. When all of the important things are getting a fair share of attention; - family, physical health, work, social connections - and don’t forget the finances. So let’s work towards being SATISFIED that we’ve given the rest of the year our best shot.I know personally that it can be daunting thinking of all the things to do…but when we write lists it’s easier. There’s usually not quite as much as our fevered brain imagines and it’s satisfying to cross them off.

So, make a list of the things to do;- Jobs that absolutely have to be done, things that it would be good to do and then ones that can probably be left till next year; Get your children involved on this, take the opportunity to discuss 'team work' and the power of a united family effort - prioritize and delegate where possible to your children and partner. Make sure you include something from all of the important areas of your lives. Do it now, even if it’s just making a start. Why not do an iKi Energiser as a family to engage with your children and bring about a sense of unity in these hectic times. Sign up today for iKi SRL @ Home and access videos and songs to keep you all feeling energised.

Now you're feeling energised why and ready to get organised, why not “tidy as you go” I find that keeping things tidy ensures that I don’t overlook tasks and it also helps get into a positive frame of mind.Your children who thrive on security and certainty will love this, even if they do moan about the 'tidying up' part! Model the satisfaction of a tidy, organised environment - where you can find what you need when you need it. As you see them listening and taking on board your modelled behaviour it is an awesome opportunity to introduce the iKi SRL Scoreboard if you haven't already. Issuing tokens to your children for conscious efforts in keeping things tidy and organised, respecting their property and others and pitching in as part of the family team.

Do a quick de-clutter in the home and garage. Remember there will be plenty of new stuff coming in on "the day". Encourage your children to look at their toys and belongings, perhaps there are a few things that they no longer play with that could be donated to those who would appreciate them most. Take the time to discuss how fortunate your family is and how it is nice to help those who need it most.

So that’s it;- tidy the desk, make a list and then the same for home. Over the next 4 weeks we’ll count down the days and cross off the tasks so that we’ll be able to heave a satisfied sigh on Dec 25. And we can give the Nice Us for Christmas to those we love the most.